Scuba tanks are an essential part of every scuba diver’s kit. Although they don't contain air, they have a lot of gas. This is usually more than what they can hold. Different types of diving require different tank sizes. Therefore, you need to make sure you choose the right tank for you based on what water you are going to be using. Here are the main types of Scuba Tanks and their sizes.
scuba tanks contain no air
The standard aluminum 80 can holds 77 feet3 air. Trimix, a dive gas, is 10-20% smaller than air. Also, higher maximum service pressures don't necessarily equal more air. Manufacturers tend to overstate their tanks' capacity, though. It is therefore important to check the capacity of each individual cylinder against the actual volume.
They have more gas than water and contain more free gas.
Technical divers divers use different mix gases to divers than recreational divers. Therefore, their true air- and Trimix capacity is less than their water capacities. Because Helium is less compressible then air, the true air and trimix capacities of technical divers are smaller than their actual water capacities. Double HP117 cylinders contain a true air volume of 235 ft3 while Heliair 10/50 has a true air capacity of 216 ft3. The Z Factors for SCUBA Tables can be used to determine the correct mixed-gas capacity.
They are made out of steel and aluminum
It is important to decide which scuba tank is better for divers. Steel tanks are stronger and can withstand deep dives. This durability comes at a price. Aluminum tanks can easily develop structural fractures which can lead to serious injury. A steel tank is more expensive than an aluminum tank. However, aluminum tanks have become the industry standard.
They are available in different sizes
Scuba tanks are made from steel or aluminum. Steel tanks are lighter and last longer, but heavier. A lightweight aluminum tank might be the best option if you intend to dive a lot or bring a weight belt. Aluminum tanks may not be as light as steel tanks so it is important to know your weight requirements before you purchase one. Steel tanks work well for drysuit and local diving.
They must be inspected regularly
There are many methods to test your scuba tanks. Hydrostatic testing is often done beneath the neck of a tank. A visual inspection can also help you find corrosion or contamination. Tumbling is another method to inspect the tank's condition. Tumbling involves filling the tank with media and spinning it for a time to get rid of dirt and other contaminants. If the tank's sound is unusual, it might be an indication that it needs to get cleaned.